Cotton Gloves for Eczema-Prone Hands: How to Use Them Overnight

If your hands are dry and cracked by the end of the day, cotton gloves for eczema-prone hands are one of the cheapest, simplest tools you can add to your routine. Moisturize, slip on a pair of soft 100% cotton gloves and go to bed. The cream stays on your hands instead of your pillowcase. Here's how we use them with our kids, what to look for and what to skip.

Why cotton gloves?

• They keep moisturizer where you put it. A thick layer of cream works best when it isn't rubbed off on the sheets.
• They're breathable. Cotton lets heat and sweat escape, unlike rubber or nitrile.
• They're a barrier. Thin cotton liners under rubber gloves keep dry hands away from latex, sweat and cleaning products.
• They're a reminder not to scratch. Especially at night, when you don't notice you're doing it.

What to look for in cotton gloves

• 100% cotton. "Cotton-rich" blends can include synthetic fibers that feel scratchy.
• Thin and soft. You should be able to sleep in them without overheating.
• Washable and plentiful. You want a clean, dry pair every night, so a multi-pack helps.
• No dyes or added scents. Plain white is the easy choice.

How to use cotton gloves overnight

1. Wash your hands with lukewarm water and a gentle soap like our Gentle Foaming Hand Soap. Pat dry.
2. While your hands are still slightly damp, apply a generous layer of a rich cream. We use our Oatmeal Hand Cream.
3. Put on a clean, dry pair of gloves and go to sleep.
4. In the morning, wash the gloves in a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent.

If your doctor has prescribed something for your hands, follow their directions for using it with gloves.

Cotton vs. nitrile vs. rubber gloves

Use cotton for sleeping and everyday wear. Use rubber or nitrile only for wet work like dishes and cleaning, and keep it short. Wearing a thin cotton glove underneath makes wet work much more comfortable. The National Eczema Association and the American Academy of Dermatology both have helpful hand-care tips.

Our pick

Our Premium Cotton Gloves come 24 pairs to a box, so there's always a clean pair by the bed. Pair them with our best hand cream for eczema-prone skin guide to build a simple nighttime routine.

If your hands are cracked, bleeding or not improving, see your doctor or dermatologist.

FAQs

Do cotton gloves help eczema-prone hands?

Cotton gloves don't do anything on their own, but they're a simple way to keep moisturizer on your hands overnight and to protect dry hands from irritants. Pick soft, breathable 100% cotton, and ask your dermatologist what's right for your skin.

Should I wear cotton or nitrile gloves to bed?

Cotton. Nitrile, latex and vinyl gloves trap heat and sweat, which can bother sensitive skin. Save rubber gloves for dishes and cleaning, ideally with a thin cotton glove underneath.

How long should I wear cotton gloves overnight?

Most people wear them all night after moisturizing. If your hands feel hot or damp, take them off or switch to a fresh, dry pair.

How do I wash cotton gloves?

Wash new gloves before you first wear them, then wash after each use in a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent. Skip fabric softener and dryer sheets.

Can our kids wear cotton gloves?

Yes, many families use them at bedtime with older kids. Our one-size gloves fit most teens and adults, so check the fit for smaller hands, and ask your pediatrician first.

What should I put on before the gloves?

A rich, gentle cream like our Oatmeal Hand Cream, or whatever your dermatologist recommends. Apply it right after washing while your hands are still slightly damp.